News & Events
On the Front Lines: Voices and Experiences of Non-White Child Welfare Workers
Speakers:
Kevin Gosine, Asst. Professor of Sociology, Brock University
Gordon Pon, Asst. Professor, School of Social Work
This study draws on focus group data highlighting the perceptions and experiences of racialized child protection workers in the Greater Toronto Area with the aim of exploring whether the Ontario child welfare system can accommodate diversity more equitably. Two focus groups were conducted in 2009: one consisting of child welfare workers who identify as Black; a second group consisting of non-Black racialized child welfare workers of varying ethno-racial backgrounds. Using an anti-oppression and anti-racism theoretical framework, specific broad themes explored included the workplace experiences of workers as well as their perceptions of how effectively child welfare services are delivered to racialized service users. Findings reveal that workers experienced their workplace as white-normed environments in which individual and structural racial biases were prevalent. Participants reported systemic racial discrimination in promotion and advancement within agencies, in addition to having to contend with ongoing instances of racial micro-aggression. Scholars have defined micro-aggression as common everyday practices that denigrate people of colour. Participants also spoke of the struggle of having to contend with white-normed and middle class oriented policies, tools, and practices which often prevented them from meeting the unique needs of racialized service users. Participants found service delivery to racialized service users to be largely inadequate, with services informed by stereotypes and a lack of appreciation of cultural differences. We conclude by providing recommendations for creating a more equitable child welfare system.
Light refreshments will be served. In light of limited seating, please RSVP to jpoole@ryerson.ca or vholder@ryerson.ca
| WHAT: | On the Front Lines: Voices and Experiences of Non-White Child Welfare Workers |
| WHEN: | Start date/time: Monday , November 23 at 12:30 PM
End date/time: Monday , November 23 at 2:00 PM |
| WHERE: | EPH222, Eric Palin Hall, 87 Gerrard St. E. |
| Contact: | RSVP to jpoole@ryerson.ca or vholder@ryerson.ca |
